For a very long time, I hoped to experience travel to different countries. I wanted to learn other languages and cultures and to have an opportunity to share Korean culture with people from other places. Such opportunities did not come easily, but I had always dreamed of the day when such a journey might become reality.

Last winter, the Study Abroad Program (SAP) gave me the priceless experience that I had dreamed of. When I heard about the program, I submitted the application. I was shocked when I heard that I had been selected. I was very happy because I had never traveled abroad before.

Our group consisted of ten students from the Department of American Studies. After we arrived in Hawaii, we stayed near Waikiki Beach. The beach was crowded with surfers and there was fantastic scenery. At first, I was worried and a bit afraid. However, many Hawaiians greeted me with a smile and a wave. I opened my mind a bit more and slowly adapted myself to the surroundings.

From February 7, we took a course titled “Hawaii NICE” (New Intensive Courses in English) for three weeks at the University of Hawaii, Manoa. After an interview and evaluation on the first day, we were assigned to different classes based upon our English ability. We were in class for four hours each day and were required to use only English! I had many talks with Japanese students in the program as well as regular University of Hawaii students. We talked about our different cultures and shared all sorts of information. Our class discussed a variety of topics and made presentations. I had always had a certain fear about speaking English. However, the more that I spoke, the greater was my confidence.

While staying in Hawaii, I also joined a volunteer activity with some of my classmates. We prepared meals and waited tables for homeless people. I found a significant difference between such places in Hawaii and Korea. It felt like working in a normal restaurant. Many homeless people enjoyed eating their meals and everyone seemed like one large family.

In addition to volunteer activities, we climbed some mountains to see the Manoa Waterfall. We also climbed Diamond Head to see the view of Waikiki Beach. When I stood on Diamond Head, the scenery was very attractive. The wind was very cool and my mind was refreshed. After hiking, we shared the meals that we had prepared. It was a good time. The Hawaii NICE group seemed like a real family!

When I took hula lessons, I had to learn to time my steps to the traditional Hawaiian music. At first, my dancing was awkward. However, the movements of hula dancing are easy to follow. Therefore, I learned quickly. My class teacher also sang traditional Hawaiian songs for us while playing the ukulele. The song was similar to a Korean lullaby. I felt much closer to Hawaiian culture after learning hula and hearing Hawaiian songs.

I thought that the three weeks would seem like a long time. However, the time passed so quickly! After spending about one month in Hawaii, I gained more confidence speaking English and I felt that I had matured as well. If I should ever have another opportunity like this, I will seek it actively. If any student wants to develop more while making unforgettable memories, I recommend this program!